Managed connectivity in electrical systems and methods thereof

ABSTRACT

An electrical connector arrangement includes a storage device coupled to a connector housing. The storage device is configured to store physical layer information pertaining to the electrical connector arrangement. The storage device also has contacts that enable the physical layer information to be read from the storage device by a media reading interface. A connector assembly includes at least one receptacle assembly; a printed circuit board; and a media reading interface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 15/972,656,filed May 7, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,470,320, which is a continuationof application Ser. No. 15/707,518, filed Sep. 18, 2017, now U.S. Pat.No. 9,967,983, issued May 8, 2018, which is a continuation ofapplication Ser. No. 15/195,533, filed Jun. 28, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No.9,769,939, issued Sep. 19, 2017, which is a continuation of applicationSer. No. 14/656,801, filed Mar. 13, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,401,552,issued Jul. 26, 2016, which is a continuation of application Ser. No.12/905,689, filed Oct. 15, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,992,260, issuedMar. 31, 2015, which application claims the benefit of provisionalapplication Ser. No. 61/252,395, filed Oct. 16, 2009, and titled“Managed Connectivity in Electrical Systems and Methods Thereof,” whichapplications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

In communications infrastructure installations, a variety ofcommunications devices can be used for switching, cross-connecting, andinterconnecting communications signal transmission paths in acommunications network. Some such communications devices are installedin one or more equipment racks to permit organized, high-densityinstallations to be achieved in limited space available for equipment.

Communications devices can be organized into communications networks,which typically include numerous logical communication links betweenvarious items of equipment. Often a single logical communication link isimplemented using several pieces of physical communication media. Forexample, a logical communication link between a computer and aninter-networking device such as a hub or router can be implemented asfollows. A first cable connects the computer to a jack mounted in awall. A second cable connects the wall-mounted jack to a port of a patchpanel, and a third cable connects the inter-networking device to anotherport of a patch panel. A “patch cord” cross connects the two together.In other words, a single logical communication link is often implementedusing several segments of physical communication media.

Network management systems (NMS) are typically aware of logicalcommunication links that exist in a communications network, buttypically do not have information about the specific physical layermedia (e.g., the communications devices, cables, couplers, etc.) thatare used to implement the logical communication links. Indeed, NMSsystems typically do not have the ability to display or otherwiseprovide information about how logical communication links areimplemented at the physical layer level.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to communications connector assembliesand arrangements that provide physical layer management (PLM)capabilities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the description, illustrate several aspects of the presentdisclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a portion of an example communications and datamanagement system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one implementation of a communicationsmanagement system that includes PLI functionality as well as PLMfunctionality in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of one high-level example of a port and mediareading interface that are suitable for use in the management system ofFIG. 2 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example connector arrangement in theform of a modular RJ plug in accordance with the principles of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the modular RJ plug of FIG. 5in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a further exploded perspective view of the modular RJ plug ofFIG. 5 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a still further exploded perspective view of the modular RJplug of FIG. 5 in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example flexible circuit of themodular RJ plug of FIG. 5 in accordance with the principles of thepresent disclosure;

FIGS. 9-19 show an example connector assembly in the form of a patchpanel defining at least one socket, which can receive the connectorarrangement for signal transmission in accordance with the principles ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 20-22 show another example of a connector arrangement in the formof a modular plug for terminating an electrical communications cable inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 23-38 show an example connector assembly and components thereof inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a portion of an example communications and datamanagement system 100. The example system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes apart of a communications network 101 along which communications signalsS1 pass. In one example implementation, the network 101 can include anInternet Protocol network. In other implementations, however, thecommunications network 101 may include other types of networks.

The communications network 101 includes interconnected networkcomponents (e.g., connector assemblies, inter-networking devices,internet working devices, servers, outlets, and end user equipment(e.g., computers)). In one example implementation, communicationssignals S1 pass from a computer to a wall outlet to a port ofcommunication panel, to a first port of an inter-networking device, outanother port of the inter-networking device, to a port of the same oranother communications panel, to a rack mounted server.

The portion of the communications network 101 shown in FIG. 1 includesfirst and second connector assemblies 130, 130′ at which communicationssignals S1 pass from one portion of the communications network 101 toanother portion of the communications network 101. Non-limiting examplesof connector assemblies 130, 130′ include, for example, rack-mountedconnector assemblies (e.g., patch panels, distribution units, and mediaconverters for fiber and copper physical communication media),wall-mounted connector assemblies (e.g., boxes, jacks, outlets, andmedia converters for fiber and copper physical communication media), andinter-networking devices (e.g., switches, routers, hubs, repeaters,gateways, and access points). In the example shown, the first connectorassembly 130 defines at least one port 132 configured to communicativelycouple at least a first media segment 105 to at least a second mediasegment 115 to enable the communication signals S1 to pass between themedia segments 105, 115.

The at least one port 132 of the first connector assembly 130 may bedirectly connected to a port 132′ of the second connector assembly 130′.As the term is used herein, the port 132 is directly connected to theport 132′ when the communications signals S1 pass between the two ports132, 132′ without passing through an intermediate port. For example,routing a patchcord between port 132 and port 132′ directly connects theports 132, 132′.

The port 132 of the first connector assembly 130 also may be indirectlyconnected to the port 132′ of the second connector assembly 130′. As theterm is used herein, the port 132 is indirectly connected to the port132′ when the communications signals S1 pass through an intermediateport when traveling between the ports 132, 132′. For example, in oneimplementation, the communications signals S1 may be routed over onemedia segment from the port 132 at the first connector assembly 130 to aport of a third connector assembly at which the media segment is coupledto another media segment that is routed from the port of the thirdconnector assembly to the port 132′ of the second connector assembly130′.

Non-limiting examples of media segments include optical fibers, whichcarry optical data signals, and electrical conductors (e.g., CAT-5, 6,and 7 twisted-pair cables), which carry electrical data signals. Mediasegments also can include electrical plugs, fiber optic connectors(e.g., SC, LC, FC, LX.5, or MPO connectors), adapters, media converters,and other physical components terminating to the fibers, conductors, orother such media segments. The techniques described here also can beused with other types of connectors including, for example, BNCconnectors, F connectors, DSX jacks and plugs, bantam jacks and plugs.

In the example shown, each media segment 105, 115 is terminated at aplug or connector 110, 120, respectively, which is configured tocommunicatively connect the media segments 105, 115. For example, in oneimplementation, the port 132 of the connector assembly 130 can beconfigured to align ferrules of two fiber optic connectors 110, 120. Inanother implementation, the port 132 of the connector assembly 130 canbe configured to electrically connect an electrical plug with anelectrical socket (e.g., a jack). In yet another implementation, theport 132 can include a media converter configured to connect an opticalfiber to an electrical conductor.

In accordance with some aspects, the connector assembly 130 does notactively manage (e.g., is passive with respect to) the communicationssignals S1 passing through port 132. For example, in someimplementations, the connector assembly 130 does not modify thecommunications signal S1 carried over the media segments 105, 115.Further, in some implementations, the connector assembly 130 does notread, store, or analyze the communications signal S1 carried over themedia segments 105, 115.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the communications anddata management system 100 also provides physical layer information(PLI) functionality as well as physical layer management (PLM)functionality. As the term is used herein, “PLI functionality” refers tothe ability of a physical component or system to identify or otherwiseassociate physical layer information with some or all of the physicalcomponents used to implement the physical layer of the system. As theterm is used herein, “PLM functionality” refers to the ability of acomponent or system to manipulate or to enable others to manipulate thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of the system(e.g., to track what is connected to each component, to traceconnections that are made using the components, or to provide visualindications to a user at a selected component).

As the term is used herein, “physical layer information” refers toinformation about the identity, attributes, and/or status of thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of thecommunications system 101. In accordance with some aspects, physicallayer information of the communications system 101 can include mediainformation, device information, and location information.

As the term is used herein, “media information” refers to physical layerinformation pertaining to cables, plugs, connectors, and other suchmedia segments. In accordance with some aspects, the media informationis stored on or in the media segments, themselves. In accordance withother aspects, the media information can be stored at one or more datarepositories for the communications system, either alternatively or inaddition to the media, themselves. Non-limiting examples of mediainformation include a part number, a serial number, a plug or otherconnector type, a conductor or fiber type, a cable or fiber length,cable polarity, a cable or fiber pass-through capacity, a date ofmanufacture, a manufacturing lot number, information about one or morevisual attributes of physical communication media (e.g., informationabout the color or shape of the physical communication media or an imageof the physical communication media), and an insertion count (i.e., arecord of the number of times the media segment has been connected toanother media segment or network component). Media information also caninclude testing or media quality or performance information. The testingor media quality or performance information, for example, can be theresults of testing that is performed when a particular segment of mediais manufactured.

As the term is used herein, “device information” refers to physicallayer information pertaining to the communications panels,inter-networking devices, media converters, computers, servers, walloutlets, and other physical communications devices to which the mediasegments attach. In accordance with some aspects, the device informationis stored on or in the devices, themselves. In accordance with otheraspects, the device information can be stored at one or more datarepositories for the communications system, either alternatively or inaddition to the devices, themselves. Non-limiting examples of deviceinformation include a device identifier, a device type, port prioritydata (that associates a priority level with each port), and port updates(described in more detail herein).

As the term is used herein, “location information” refers to physicallayer information pertaining to a physical layout of a building orbuildings in which the network 101 is deployed. Location informationalso can include information indicating where each communicationsdevice, media segment, network component, or other component that isphysically located within the building. In accordance with some aspects,the location information of each system component is stored on or in therespective component. In accordance with other aspects, the locationinformation can be stored at one or more data repositories for thecommunications system, either alternatively or in addition to the systemcomponents, themselves.

In accordance with some aspects, one or more of the components of thecommunications network 101 is configured to store physical layerinformation pertaining to the component as will be disclosed in moredetail herein. In FIG. 1, the connectors 110, 120, the media segments105, 115, and/or the connector assemblies 130, 130′ may store physicallayer information. For example, in FIG. 1, each connector 110, 120 maystore information pertaining to itself (e.g., type of connector, data ofmanufacture, etc.) and/or to the respective media segment 105, 115(e.g., type of media, test results, etc.).

In another example implementation, the media segments 105, 115 orconnectors 110, 120 may store media information that includes a count ofthe number of times that the media segment (or connector) has beeninserted into port 132. In such an example, the count stored in or onthe media segment is updated each time the segment (or plug orconnector) is inserted into port 132. This insertion count value can beused, for example, for warranty purposes (e.g., to determine if theconnector has been inserted more than the number of times specified inthe warranty) or for security purposes (e.g., to detect unauthorizedinsertions of the physical communication media).

In accordance with certain aspects, one or more of the components of thecommunications network 101 also can read the physical layer informationfrom one or more media segments retained thereat. In certainimplementations, one or more network components includes a media readinginterface that is configured to read physical layer information storedon or in the media segments or connectors attached thereto. For example,in one implementation, the connector assembly 130 includes a mediareading interface 134 that can read media information stored on themedia cables 105, 115 retained within the port 132. In anotherimplementation, the media reading interface 134 can read mediainformation stored on the connectors or plugs 110, 120 terminating thecables 105, 115, respectively.

In some implementations, some types of physical layer information can beobtained by the connector assembly 130 from a user at the connectorassembly 130 via a user interface (e.g., a keypad, a scanner, a touchscreen, buttons, etc.). The connector assembly 130 can provide thephysical layer information obtained from the user to other devices orsystems that are coupled to the network 101 (as described in more detailherein). In other implementations, some or all physical layerinformation can be obtained by the connector assembly 130 from otherdevices or systems that are coupled to the network 101. For example,physical layer information pertaining to media that is not configured tostore such information can be entered manually into another device orsystem that is coupled to the network 101 (e.g., at the connectorassembly 130, at the computer 160, or at the aggregation point 150).

In some implementations, some types of non-physical layer information(e.g., network information) can be obtained by one network componentfrom other devices or systems that are coupled to the network 101. Forexample, the connector assembly 130 may pull non-physical layerinformation from one or more components of the network 101. In otherimplementations, the non-physical layer information can be obtained bythe connector assembly 130 from a user at the connector assembly 130.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, the physical layerinformation read by a network component may be processed or stored atthe component. For example, in certain implementations, the firstconnector assembly 130 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to read physicallayer information stored on the connectors 110, 120 and/or on the mediasegments 105, 115 using media reading interface 134. Accordingly, inFIG. 1, the first connector assembly 130 may store not only physicallayer information about itself (e.g., the total number of availableports at that assembly 130, the number of ports currently in use, etc.),but also physical layer information about the connectors 110, 120inserted at the ports and/or about the media segments 105, 115 attachedto the connectors 110, 120.

In some implementations, the connector assembly 130 is configured toadd, delete, and/or change the physical layer information stored in oron the segment of physical communication media 105, 115 (i.e., or theassociated connectors 110, 120). For example, in some implementations,the media information stored in or on the segment of physicalcommunication media 105, 115 can be updated to include the results oftesting that is performed when a segment of physical media is installedor otherwise checked. In other implementations, such testing informationis supplied to the aggregation point 150 for storage and/or processing.In some implementations, modification of the physical layer informationdoes not affect the communications signals S1 passing through theconnector assembly 130.

In other implementations, the physical layer information obtained by themedia reading interface (e.g., interface 134 of FIG. 1) may becommunicated (see PLI signals S2) over the network 101 for processingand/or storage. The components of the communications network 101 areconnected to one or more aggregation devices 150 (described in greaterdetail herein) and/or to one or more computing systems 160. For example,in the implementation shown in FIG. 1, each connector assembly 130includes a PLI port 136 that is separate from the “normal” ports 132 ofthe connector assembly 130. Physical layer information is communicatedbetween the connector assembly 130 and the network 101 through the PLIport 136. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the connector assembly 130 isconnected to a representative aggregation device 150, a representativecomputing system 160, and to other components of the network 101 (seelooped arrow) via the PLI port 136.

The physical layer information is communicated over the network 101 justlike any other data that is communicated over the network 101, while atthe same time not affecting the communication signals S1 that passthrough the connector assembly 130 on the normal ports 132. Indeed, insome implementations, the physical layer information may be communicatedas one or more of the communication signals S1 that pass through thenormal ports 132 of the connector assemblies 130, 130′. For example, inone implementation, a media segment may be routed between the PLI port136 and one of the “normal” ports 132. In such an implementation, thephysical layer information may be passed along the communicationsnetwork 101 to other components of the communications network 101 (e.g.,to the one or more aggregation points 150 and/or to the one or morecomputer systems 160). By using the network 101 to communicate physicallayer information pertaining to it, an entirely separate network neednot be provided and maintained in order to communicate such physicallayer information.

In other implementations, however, the communications network 101includes a data network along which the physical layer informationdescribed above is communicated. At least some of the media segments andother components of the data network may be separate from those of thecommunications network 101 to which such physical layer informationpertains. For example, in some implementations, the first connectorassembly 130 may include a plurality of fiber optic adapters definingports at which connectorized optical fibers are optically coupledtogether to create an optical path for communications signals S1. Thefirst connector assembly 130 also may include one or more electricalcable ports at which the physical layer information (see PLI signals S2)are passed to other parts of the data network. (e.g., to the one or moreaggregation points 150 and/or to the one or more computer systems 160).

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one example implementation of acommunications management system 200 that includes PLI functionality aswell as PLM functionality. The management system 200 comprises aplurality of connector assemblies 202. The system 200 includes one ormore connector assemblies 202 connected to an IP network 218. Theconnector assemblies 202 shown in FIG. 2 illustrate variousimplementations of the connector assembly 130 of FIG. 1.

Each connector assembly 202 includes one or more ports 204, each ofwhich is used to connect two or more segments of physical communicationmedia to one another (e.g., to implement a portion of a logicalcommunication link for communication signals S1 of FIG. 1). At leastsome of the connector assemblies 202 are designed for use with segmentsof physical communication media that have physical layer informationstored in or on them. The physical layer information is stored in or onthe segment of physical communication media in a manner that enables thestored information, when the segment is attached to a port 204, to beread by a programmable processor 206 associated with the connectorassembly 202.

In the particular implementation shown in FIG. 2, each of the ports 204of the connector assemblies 202 comprises a respective media readinginterface 208 via which the respective programmable processor 206 isable to determine if a physical communication media segment is attachedto that port 204 and, if one is, to read the physical layer informationstored in or on the attached segment (if such media information isstored therein or thereon). The programmable processor 206 associatedwith each connector assembly 202 is communicatively coupled to each ofthe media reading interfaces 208 using a suitable bus or otherinterconnect (not shown).

In the particular implementation shown in FIG. 2, four example types ofconnector assembly configurations are shown. In the first connectorassembly configuration 210 shown in FIG. 2, each connector assembly 202includes its own respective programmable processor 206 and its ownrespective network interface 216 that is used to communicatively couplethat connector assembly 202 to an Internet Protocol (IP) network 218.

In the second type of connector assembly configuration 212, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are physically located near each other (e.g.,in a bay or equipment closet). Each of the connector assemblies 202 inthe group includes its own respective programmable processor 206.However, in the second connector assembly configuration 212, some of theconnector assemblies 202 (referred to here as “interfaced connectorassemblies”) include their own respective network interfaces 216 whilesome of the connector assemblies 202 (referred to here as“non-interfaced connector assemblies”) do not. The non-interfacedconnector assemblies 202 are communicatively coupled to one or more ofthe interfaced connector assemblies 202 in the group via localconnections. In this way, the non-interfaced connector assemblies 202are communicatively coupled to the IP network 218 via the networkinterface 216 included in one or more of the interfaced connectorassemblies 202 in the group. In the second type of connector assemblyconfiguration 212, the total number of network interfaces 216 used tocouple the connector assemblies 202 to the IP network 218 can bereduced. Moreover, in the particular implementation shown in FIG. 2, thenon-interfaced connector assemblies 202 are connected to the interfacedconnector assembly 202 using a daisy chain topology (though othertopologies can be used in other implementations and embodiments).

In the third type of connector assembly configuration 214, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are physically located near each other (e.g.,within a bay or equipment closet). Some of the connector assemblies 202in the group (also referred to here as “master” connector assemblies202) include both their own programmable processors 206 and networkinterfaces 216, while some of the connector assemblies 202 (alsoreferred to here as “slave” connector assemblies 202) do not includetheir own programmable processors 206 or network interfaces 216. Each ofthe slave connector assemblies 202 is communicatively coupled to one ormore of the master connector assemblies 202 in the group via one or morelocal connections. The programmable processor 206 in each of the masterconnector assemblies 202 is able to carry out the PLM functions for boththe master connector assembly 202 of which it is a part and any slaveconnector assemblies 202 to which the master connector assembly 202 isconnected via the local connections. As a result, the cost associatedwith the slave connector assemblies 202 can be reduced. In theparticular implementation shown in FIG. 2, the slave connectorassemblies 202 are connected to a master connector assembly 202 in astar topology (though other topologies can be used in otherimplementations and embodiments).

Each programmable processor 206 is configured to execute software orfirmware that causes the programmable processor 206 to carry out variousfunctions described below. Each programmable processor 206 also includessuitable memory (not shown) that is coupled to the programmableprocessor 206 for storing program instructions and data. In general, theprogrammable processor 206 determines if a physical communication mediasegment is attached to a port 204 with which that processor 206 isassociated and, if one is, to read the identifier and attributeinformation stored in or on the attached physical communication mediasegment (if the segment includes such information stored therein orthereon) using the associated media reading interface 208.

In the fourth type of connector assembly configuration 215, a group ofconnector assemblies 202 are housed within a common chassis or otherenclosure. Each of the connector assemblies 202 in the configuration 215includes their own programmable processors 206. In the context of thisconfiguration 215, the programmable processors 206 in each of theconnector assemblies are “slave” processors 206. Each of the slaveprogrammable processor 206 is also communicatively coupled to a common“master” programmable processor 217 (e.g., over a backplane included inthe chassis or enclosure). The master programmable processor 217 iscoupled to a network interface 216 that is used to communicativelycouple the master programmable processor 217 to the IP network 218.

In this configuration 215, each slave programmable processor 206 isconfigured to determine if physical communication media segments areattached to its port 204 and to read the physical layer informationstored in or on the attached physical communication media segments (ifthe attached segments have such information stored therein or thereon)using the associated media reading interfaces 208. The physical layerinformation is communicated from the slave programmable processor 206 ineach of the connector assemblies 202 in the chassis to the masterprocessor 217. The master processor 217 is configured to handle theprocessing associated with communicating the physical layer informationread from by the slave processors 206 to devices that are coupled to theIP network 218.

The system 200 includes functionality that enables the physical layerinformation that the connector assemblies 202 capture to be used byapplication-layer functionality outside of the traditionalphysical-layer management application domain. That is, the physicallayer information is not retained in a PLM “island” used only for PLMpurposes but is instead made available to other applications. In theparticular implementation shown in FIG. 2, the management system 200includes an aggregation point 220 that is communicatively coupled to theconnector assemblies 202 via the IP network 218.

The aggregation point 220 includes functionality that obtains physicallayer information from the connector assemblies 202 (and other devices)and stores the physical layer information in a data store. Theaggregation point 220 can be used to receive physical layer informationfrom various types of connector assemblies 202 that have functionalityfor automatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media. Also, the aggregation point 220 andaggregation functionality 224 can be used to receive physical layerinformation from other types of devices that have functionality forautomatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media. Examples of such devices include end-userdevices—such as computers, peripherals (e.g., printers, copiers, storagedevices, and scanners), and IP telephones—that include functionality forautomatically reading information stored in or on the segment ofphysical communication media.

The aggregation point 220 also can be used to obtain other types ofphysical layer information. For example, in this implementation, theaggregation point 220 also obtains information about physicalcommunication media segments that is not otherwise automaticallycommunicated to an aggregation point 220. This information can beprovided to the aggregation point 220, for example, by manually enteringsuch information into a file (e.g., a spreadsheet) and then uploadingthe file to the aggregation point 220 (e.g., using a web browser) inconnection with the initial installation of each of the various items.Such information can also, for example, be directly entered using a userinterface provided by the aggregation point 220 (e.g., using a webbrowser).

The aggregation point 220 also includes functionality that provides aninterface for external devices or entities to access the physical layerinformation maintained by the aggregation point 220. This access caninclude retrieving information from the aggregation point 220 as well assupplying information to the aggregation point 220. In thisimplementation, the aggregation point 220 is implemented as “middleware”that is able to provide such external devices and entities withtransparent and convenient access to the PLI maintained by the accesspoint 220. Because the aggregation point 220 aggregates PLI from therelevant devices on the IP network 218 and provides external devices andentities with access to such PLI, the external devices and entities donot need to individually interact with all of the devices in the IPnetwork 218 that provide PLI, nor do such devices need to have thecapacity to respond to requests from such external devices and entities.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a network management system (NMS) 230includes PLI functionality 232 that is configured to retrieve physicallayer information from the aggregation point 220 and provide it to theother parts of the NMS 230 for use thereby. The NMS 230 uses theretrieved physical layer information to perform one or more networkmanagement functions. The NMS 230 communicates with the aggregationpoint 220 over the IP network 218.

As shown in FIG. 2, an application 234 executing on a computer 236 canalso use the API implemented by the aggregation point 220 to access thePLI information maintained by the aggregation point 220 (e.g., toretrieve such information from the aggregation point 220 and/or tosupply such information to the aggregation point 220). The computer 236is coupled to the IP network 218 and accesses the aggregation point 220over the IP network 218.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, one or more inter-networking devices 238used to implement the IP network 218 include physical layer information(PLI) functionality 240. The PLI functionality 240 of theinter-networking device 238 is configured to retrieve physical layerinformation from the aggregation point 220 and use the retrievedphysical layer information to perform one or more inter-networkingfunctions. Examples of inter-networking functions include Layer 1, Layer2, and Layer 3 (of the OSI model) inter-networking functions such as therouting, switching, repeating, bridging, and grooming of communicationtraffic that is received at the inter-networking device.

The aggregation point 220 can be implemented on a standalone networknode (e.g., a standalone computer running appropriate software) or canbe integrated along with other network functionality (e.g., integratedwith an element management system or network management system or othernetwork server or network element). Moreover, the functionality of theaggregation point 220 can be distribute across many nodes and devices inthe network and/or implemented, for example, in a hierarchical manner(e.g., with many levels of aggregation points). The IP network 218 caninclude one or more local area networks and/or wide area networks (e.g.,the Internet). As a result, the aggregation point 220, NMS 230, andcomputer 236 need not be located at the same site as each other or atthe same site as the connector assemblies 202 or the inter-networkingdevices 238.

Also, power can be supplied to the connector assemblies 202 usingconventional “Power over Ethernet” techniques specified in the IEEE802.3af standard, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Insuch an implementation, a power hub 242 or other power supplying device(located near or incorporated into an inter-networking device that iscoupled to each connector assembly 202) injects DC power onto one ormore of the wires (also referred to here as the “power wires”) includedin the copper twisted-pair cable used to connect each connector assembly202 to the associated inter-networking device.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one example connection system 300including a connector assembly 320 configured to collect physical layerinformation from a connector arrangement 310. The example connectionsystem 300 shown includes a jack module 320 and an electrical plug 310.The connector arrangement 310 terminates at least a first electricalsegment (e.g., a conductor cable) 305 of physical communications mediaand the connector assembly 320 terminates at least second electricalsegments (e.g., twisted pairs of copper wires) 329 of physicalcommunications media. The connector assembly 320 defines at least onesocket port 325 in which the connector arrangement 310 can beaccommodated.

Each electrical segment 305 of the connector arrangement 310 carriescommunication signals (e.g., communications signals S1 of FIG. 1) toprimary contact members 312 on the connector arrangement 310. Theconnector assembly 320 includes a primary contact arrangement 322 thatis accessible from the socket port 325. The primary contact arrangement322 is aligned with and configured to interface with the primary contactmembers 312 to receive the communications signals (S1 of FIG. 1) fromthe primary contact members 312 when the connector arrangement 310 isinserted into the socket 325 of the connector assembly 320.

The connector assembly 320 is electrically coupled to one or moreprinted circuit boards. For example, the connector assembly 320 cansupport or enclose a first printed circuit board 326, which connects toinsulation displacement contacts (IDCs) 327 or to another type ofelectrical contacts. The IDCs 327 terminate the electrical segments 329of physical communications media (e.g., conductive wires). The firstprinted circuit board 326 manages the primary communication signalscarried from the conductors terminating the cable 305 to the electricalsegments 329 that couple to the IDCs 327.

In accordance with some aspects, the connector arrangement 310 caninclude a storage device 315 configured to store physical layerinformation. The connector arrangement 310 also includes second contactmembers 314 that are electrically coupled (i.e., or otherwisecommunicatively coupled) to the storage device 315. In oneimplementation, the storage device 315 is implemented using an EEPROM(e.g., a PCB surface-mount EEPROM). In other implementations, thestorage device 315 is implemented using other non-volatile memorydevice. Each storage device 315 is arranged and configured so that itdoes not interfere or interact with the communications signalscommunicated over the media segment 305.

The connector assembly 320 also includes a second contact arrangement(e.g., a media reading interface) 324. In certain implementations, themedia reading interface 324 is accessible through the socket port 325.The second contact arrangement 324 is aligned with and configured tointerface with the second contact members 314 of the media segment toreceive the physical layer information from the storage device 315 whenthe connector arrangement 310 is inserted into the socket 325 of theconnector assembly 320.

In some such implementations, the storage device interfaces 314 and themedia reading interfaces 324 each comprise three (3) leads—a power lead,a ground lead, and a data lead. The three leads of the storage deviceinterface 314 come into electrical contact with three (3) correspondingleads of the media reading interface 324 when the corresponding mediasegment is inserted in the corresponding port 325. In certain exampleimplementations, a two-line interface is used with a simple charge pump.In still other implementations, additional leads can be provided (e.g.,for potential future applications). Accordingly, the storage deviceinterfaces 314 and the media reading interfaces 324 may each includefour (4) leads, five (5) leads, six (6) leads, etc.

The storage device 315 also may include a processor or micro-controller,in addition to the storage for the physical layer information. In someexample implementations, the micro-controller can be used to executesoftware or firmware that, for example, performs an integrity test onthe cable 305 (e.g., by performing a capacitance or impedance test onthe sheathing or insulator that surrounds the cable 305, (which mayinclude a metallic foil or metallic filler for such purposes)). In theevent that a problem with the integrity of the cable 305 is detected,the micro-controller can communicate that fact to a programmableprocessor (e.g., processor 206 of FIG. 2) associated with the port usingthe storage device interface (e.g., by raising an interrupt). Themicro-controller also can be used for other functions.

The connector assembly 320 also can support or enclose a second printedcircuit board 328, which connects to the second contact arrangement 324.The second printed circuit board 328 manages the physical layerinformation communicated from a storage device 315 through secondcontacts 314, 324. In the example shown, the second printed circuitboard 328 is positioned on an opposite side of the connector assembly320 from the first printed circuit board 326. In other implementations,the printed circuit boards 326, 328 can be positioned on the same sideor on different sides. In one implementation, the second printed circuitboard 328 is positioned horizontally relative to the connector assembly320 (see FIG. 3). In another implementation, the second printed circuitboard 328 is positioned vertically relative to the connector assembly320.

The second printed circuit board 328 can be communicatively connected toone or more programmable electronic processors and/or one or morenetwork interfaces. In one implementation, one or more such processorsand interfaces can be arranged as components on the printed circuitboard 328. In another implementation, one of more such processor andinterfaces can be arranged on a separate circuit board that is coupledto the second printed circuit board 328. For example, the second printedcircuit board 328 can couple to other circuit boards via a card edgetype connection, a connector-to-connector type connection, a cableconnection, etc. The network interface is configured to send thephysical layer information to the data network (e.g., see signals S2 ofFIG. 1).

FIGS. 4-19 provide an example implementation of physical layermanagement networks and components for electrical (e.g., copper)communications applications. FIGS. 4-8 show an example of a connectorarrangement 3000 in the form of a modular plug 3002 for terminating anelectrical communications cable. FIGS. 9-19 show an example connectorassembly 3100 in the form of a patch panel 3102 defining at least onesocket 3106, which can receive the connector arrangement 3000 for signaltransmission.

In accordance with one aspect, the connector arrangement 3000 includesan RJ plug 3002 that connects to the end of an electrical segment ofcommunications media, such as twisted pair copper cable. The socket 3106of the connector assembly 3100 defines an RJ jack (e.g., an RJ-45 jack).In the example shown, the RJ plug 3002 is insertable into a port of amating RJ jack 3106 in the patch panel 3102 of the connector assembly3100 as will be described below. In accordance with other aspects,however, the connector arrangement 3000 and connector assembly 3100 candefine other types of electrical connections.

In the example shown, the plug 3002 includes a plug nose body 3004 forholding main signal contacts 3012, which are electrically connected tosegments of communications media terminated at the plug 3002. Forexample, the main contacts 3012 may be connected to twisted pairconductors of a communications cable. In one implementation, the mainsignal contacts 3012 are arranged at a front end 3014 of the plug 3002.The main signal contacts 3012 are positioned to electrically connect tocontacts positioned in the jack 3106 for signal transmission.

The plug 3002 further includes a finger tab 3050, which facilitateslatching the connector arrangement 3000 to the connector assembly 3100.The finger tab 3050 includes a latch surface 3052 for latching to theconnector assembly 3100. In some implementations, the finger tab 3050extends from the plug nose body 3004.

Certain types of plugs 3002 also include a keying structure 3015 that isshaped to mate with a keyway 3065 defined in the connector assembly3100. In certain implementations, the keying structure 3015 is formed ata base of the finger tab 3050. Certain types of plugs 3002 also includewire managers 3008 for managing the electrical segments ofcommunications media (e.g., twisted wire pairs) and a strain relief boot3010 which snaps to the plug nose body 3004.

The plug 3002 also includes a plug cover 3006 that mounts on the plugnose body 3004 (see FIGS. 4-6). For example, in certain implementations,the plug cover 3006 defines side opening 3066 for receiving the sidetabs 3062 defined on the plug nose body 3004. Certain types of plugcovers 3006 mount over the finger tab 3050. For example, the plug cover3006 may defines a cavity, slot, or recess for receiving the finger tab3050.

The connector arrangement 3000 also includes a storage device 3030(FIGS. 6 and 7) that is configured to store physical layer information(e.g., an identifier and/or attribute information) pertaining to thesegment of physical communications media (e.g., the plug 3002 and/or theelectrical cable terminated thereby). The storage device 3030 iselectrically connected to one or more second contacts 3026. Certaintypes of connector arrangements 3000 also can include additionalcomponents to aid in physical layer management.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a plug component 3003 including thestorage device 3030 and plug nose body 3004. In some implementations,the second contacts 3026 are located within the keying structure 3015.In certain implementations, the keying structure 3015 defines slottedopenings (e.g., see slotted openings 3072 of FIG. 4) providing access tothe second contacts 3026 (see FIG. 6). For example, in oneimplementation, the plug cover 3006 defines the slotted openings 3072for contacts 3026 to be exposed for contact with mating contacts of amedia reading interface 3188 of the connector assembly 3100.

In one implementation, the connector arrangement 3000 also can include acommunications device 3036 that is configured to send and receivecommunications signals to and from a local source. For example, thecommunications device 3036 can include an IR transceiver. Such acommunications device 3036 can enable a technician to read and/or writedata to the storage device 3030 using an infra-red wand or probe (e.g.,a handheld wand or probe). Accordingly, the technician can accessinformation stored on the connector arrangement 3000 without pluggingthe connector arrangement 3000 into a port of connector assembly 3100.

In some implementations, the storage device 3030 can be arranged on acircuit 3020 (FIG. 8) that is mounted to the modular plug 3002 (seeFIGS. 7-8). In certain implementations, the circuit 3020 is positionedbetween plug nose body 3004 and plug cover 3006. In the example shown inFIG. 6, at least a portion of the circuit 3020 is located within thekeying structure 3015. In certain implementations, additionalcomponents, such as the communications device 3036, can be arranged onthe circuit 3020.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the circuit 3020 includes a substrate3022 with conductive traces 3024 connecting lands 3028 to the secondcontacts 3026 (e.g., see FIGS. 6-8). The circuit 3020 also includescircuit components, including the media storage device 3030, installedat the lands 3028. The storage device 3030 may be accessed via thesecond contacts 3026. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the storage device3030 includes an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory(EEPROM) 3034. In other implementations, however, the storage device3030 can include any suitable type of memory. In certainimplementations, the circuit components also may include ametal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) 3032.

In accordance with some aspects, the circuit 3020 is a flexible circuitthat defines a base portion 3038 and an extending portion 3040. TheMOSFET 3032, the EEPROM 3034, and the IR device 3036 can be mounted tothe base portion 3038. The circuit contacts 3026 can be arranged on theextending portion 3040. In some implementations, the extending portion3040 is located within the keying structure 3015. In certainimplementations, the extending portion 3040 is located on the finger tab3050. The circuit contacts 3026 permit connection of the EEPROM 3034 toa media reading interface 3188 of the connector assembly 3100 as will bedisclosed herein.

In the example shown, the flexible circuit 3020 is positioned along anouter surface 3042 of plug nose body 3004. In the example shown, theextending portion is positioned on the same side of the plug as thefinger tab 3050. The base portion 3038 of the flexible circuit 3020 ispositioned along a periphery of surface 3042. Extending portion 3040 ispositioned over a flexible rib 3046 of plug nose body 3004. Rib 3046supports flexible circuit 3020 in the area of extending portion 3040 sothat contacts 3026 are positioned to engage the media reading interface3188 associated with the connector assembly 3100. Rib 3046 includesretainer pegs 3058 for engaging holes 3060 on extending portion 3040 ofthe flexible circuit 3020 for retention.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-19, an example connector assembly 3100 isshown. In the example shown, the connector assembly 3100 forms a patchpanel 3102 for rack or frame mounting and defines a plurality of ports3104. Connector assembly 3100 includes a plurality of modular RJ jackmodules (e.g., RJ 45 jack modules) 3106 which snap-fit to connectorassembly 3100 to define the ports 3104. RJ jack modules 3106 connect totwisted pair cables, or other signal transmission structures, such asPCBs. A front opening 3110 of each jack module 3106 receives the frontend 3014 (FIG. 4) of the plug 3002 to enable main signal transmissionfrom the cable through jack module 3106 to another cable or other signaltransmission media. Certain types of jack modules 3106 are configured tolatchingly receive the finger tab 3050 to secure the plug 3002 to thejack module 3106.

The connector assembly 3100 also includes a media reading interface 3188(FIGS. 11 and 17) that permits reading (e.g., by a processor) of theinformation stored in the storage device 3030 of the connectorarrangement 3000. The information read from the storage device 3030 canbe transferred to a physical layer management network (e.g., network 101of FIG. 1, network 218 of FIG. 2, etc.). In some examples, the circuitryassociated with storage device 3030 and the circuitry associated withmedia reading interface 3188 does not affect the main signal interfacebetween the plug and the jack.

In the example shown, the patch panel 3102 includes circuitry 3180 (FIG.9) mounted to a frame 3120 and a front panel or fascia 3160 (see FIG.10). In certain implementations, the circuitry 3180 is enclosed betweenthe frame 3120 and the fascia 3160. Certain types of circuitry 3180include a main PCB 3182 (FIG. 9). In certain implementations, the mainPCB 3182 is mounted to the fascia 3160, which is mounted to the frame3120. The main PCB 3182 defines openings 3183 that align with ports ofthe jack modules 306. Each opening is configured to enable passage of amodular plug 3002 through the PCB 3182 and into one of the modular jacks3106 (e.g., see FIGS. 17-18).

The main PCB 3182 includes a main communications interface connector3184 and jack interface connectors 3186 (see FIGS. 11-12). Jackinterface connectors 3186 form the media reading interface 3188 forconnector assembly 3100. In the example shown in FIGS. 17-18, the jackinterface connectors 3186 include a contact set 3190 having a body 3192and projections 3194 for connecting to the main PCB 3182 through holes3218 defined in the PCB 3182. Contact set 3190 includes a plurality ofconductive contacts 3198. In accordance with some aspects, PLMfunctionality can be retrofitted to existing systems. For example,conventional jack modules can be snap-fitted into a frame 3120 coupledto a main PCB 3182 as described above.

The main PCB 3182 also defines holes 3210 (FIG. 9) for heat staking mainPCB 3182 to front panel 3160 (e.g., see FIG. 12). Locator holes 3212align with posts 3166 of front panel 3160 to facilitate assembly of thePCB 3182 to front panel 3160 (see FIG. 11). In certain implementations,the circuitry 3180 includes an LED indicator 3216 adjacent each opening3183 of the PCB 3182. In the example shown, each LED indicator 3216 is abi-color indicator. In certain implementations, a microswitch 3124 (FIG.17) can be mounted to the PCB 3182 adjacent to each opening 3183 forsensing the presence of a connector arrangement 3000 inserted into thecorresponding jack 3106.

The frame 3120 includes a main portion 3122 and ends 3124, 3126. Eachend 3124, 3126 of the frame 3120 includes holes 3128 to mount frame 3120to a rack. The main portion 3122 of the frame 3120 includes upper andlower flanges 3140. Tabs 3142 on the flanges 3140 cooperate with acomplementary mating structure on the fascia 3160 to connect the fascia3160 to the frame 3120 (see FIG. 13). Standoffs 3144 accept screws 3145or other fasteners for mounting the front panel 3160 to the frame 3120.

The main portion 3122 of the frame 3120 defines one or more openings3132 configured to receive the jack modules 3106. Frame 3120 alsodefines a second aperture 3134 (FIG. 10) configured to receive thecommunications interface connector 3184 (e.g., see FIG. 15). The frontpanel 3160 defines openings 3162 that align with openings 3110 of thejack modules 3106 when the jack modules 3106 are mounted to the frame3120. Plugs 3002 of the connector arrangement 3000 can be insertedthrough the openings 3162 and into the jacks 3106. The front panel 3160also defines openings 3164 for the passage of light signals from the LEDindicators 3216 of the internal circuitry 3180.

In certain implementations, each opening 3162 of the front panel 3160defines a keyway 3165 shaped to receive the keying structure 3015 of theconnector arrangement 3000. In the example shown in FIGS. 10 and 14,each opening 3162 defines a recessed keyway 3165 extending downwardly.The finger tabs 3050 of certain types of connector arrangements 3000 areconfigured to latch in the keyway 3165. In one implementation, theopening 3162 and keyway 3165 are generally T-shaped (e.g., see FIG. 10).

In general, the media reading interfaces 3188 align with the openings3162 of the front panel 3160. In certain implementations, the mediareading interfaces 3188 are positioned adjacent the keyways 3165 (e.g.,see FIG. 12). For example, in one implementation, each media readinginterface 3188 can be positioned beneath one of the keyways 3165 at thefront panel openings 3162. In certain implementations, second contacts3026 located within the keying structure 3015 of the connectorarrangement 3000 interface with the media reading interface 3188 whenthe connector arrangement 3000 is inserted through the opening 3162 ofthe front panel 3160 and into the jack module 3110. For example,contacts of the media reading interface 3188 may extend through theslots 3072 of the connector arrangement 3000.

FIG. 19 shows an example connector arrangement 3000 being inserted intoan example connector assembly 3100. Once connected, information is readfrom media storage device 3030 of the connector arrangement 3000 by aCPU card 3300 connected to main communications interface connector 3184(see FIG. 16). The CPU card 3300 includes circuitry and componentsincluding a processor that is configured to read information obtainedfrom the storage device 3030 of the connector arrangement 3000.Communications ports 3302, 3304 of the CPU card 3300 can be connected tothe physical layer management network. A power port 3306 also can bedefined by the CPU card 3300.

FIGS. 20-38 provide another example implementation of physical layermanagement networks and components for electrical (e.g., copper)communications applications. FIGS. 20-22 show another example of aconnector arrangement 4000 in the form of a modular plug 4002 forterminating an electrical communications cable (not shown). FIGS. 23-38show an example connector assembly 4100 and components thereof. In theexample shown, the connector assembly 4100 is in the form of a patchpanel 4102 defining at least one socket 4106, which can receive theconnector arrangement 4000 for signal transmission.

In accordance with one aspect, the connector arrangement 4000 includesan RJ plug 4002 that connects to the end of an electrical segment ofcommunications media, such as twisted pair copper cable (not shown). Inthe example shown, the RJ plug 4002 is insertable into a port of amating RJ jack (e.g., an RJ-45 jack) 4106 in the patch panel 4102 of theconnector assembly 4100 as will be described below (see FIG. 38). Inaccordance with other aspects, however, the connector arrangement 4000and connector assembly 4100 can define other types of electricalconnections.

In the example shown, the plug 4002 includes a plug nose body 4004 (FIG.22) for holding main signal contacts 4012, which are electricallyconnected to the twisted pair conductors of the communications cable. Inone implementation, the main signal contacts 4012 are arranged at afront end 4014 of the plug 4002. The main signal contacts 4012electrically connect to contacts positioned in the jack module 4106 forsignal transmission. The plug nose body 4004 further includes a fingertab 4050, which facilitates latching the connector arrangement 4000 tothe connector assembly 4100. The finger tab 4050 includes a latchsurface 4052 for latching to the connector assembly 4100.

The plug 4002 also includes a plug cover 4006 that mounts on the plugnose body 4004 (see FIG. 22). In the example shown, the plug cover 4006mounts to an opposite side of the plug nose body 4004 from which thefinger tab 4050 extends. The plug cover 4006 defines latch arms 4007configured to be received in openings 4003 defined in the plug nose body4004. The plug cover 4006 also defines a plurality of slotted openings4009 for circuit contacts to be exposed for contact with mating contacts4190 of the media reading interface 4188 of the connector assembly 4100.In the example shown, the plug cover 4006 defines two sets of slottedopenings 4009. A platform 4005 extends between the two sets of slottedopenings 4009.

The plug 4002 also includes a wire manager 4008 for managing the twistedwire pairs and a strain relief boot 4010, which snaps to the plug nosebody 4004 (see FIG. 22).

The connector arrangement 4000 also includes a storage device 4030 (FIG.22) that is configured to store information (e.g., an identifier and/orattribute information) pertaining to the segment of physicalcommunications media (e.g., the plug 4002 and/or the electrical cableterminated thereat). In some implementations, the connector arrangement4000 also can include additional components to aid in physical layermanagement.

In one implementation, the connector arrangement 4000 also can include acommunications device (not shown) that is configured to send and receivecommunications signals to and from a local source. For example, thecommunications device can include an IR transceiver. Such acommunications device can enable a technician to read and/or write datato the storage device 4030 using an infra-red wand or probe (e.g., ahandheld wand or probe). Accordingly, the technician can accessinformation stored on the connector arrangement 4000 without unpluggingthe connector arrangement 4000 from a port of connector assembly 4100.

In some implementations, the storage device 4030 can be arranged on acircuit 4020 (FIG. 22) that is mounted to the modular plug 4002 (seeFIG. 22). In the example shown, the circuit 4020 is positioned betweenplug nose body 4004 and plug cover 4006. In certain implementations,additional components, such as a MOSFET or a communications device, canbe arranged on the circuit 4020.

In the example shown in FIG. 22, the circuit 4020 includes a substratewith conductive traces electrically connecting contacts and lands. Thecircuit 4020 also includes circuit components, including the mediastorage device 4030, at the lands. In the example shown in FIG. 22, thecircuit 4020 includes a MOSFET 4032, an EEPROM 4034. In oneimplementation, the EEPROM 4034 forms the media storage device 4030 formodular plug 4002. In other implementations, however, the storage device4030 can include any suitable type of memory.

In accordance with some aspects, the circuit 4020 is an FR-4 PCB 4022defining a U-shaped body having a base 4024 and legs 4026. The MOSFET4032 and the EEPROM 4034 can be mounted to the base 4024 of the PCB4022. The circuit contacts are arranged on the legs 4026 of the PCB4022. The circuit contacts permit connection of the EEPROM 4034 to amedia reading interface 4188 of the connector assembly 4100 as will bedisclosed herein. In one example, contacts of the media readinginterface 4188 can extend through the slotted openings 4009 to connectto the circuit contacts.

Referring now to FIGS. 23-38, an example connector assembly 4100 isshown. In the example shown, the connector assembly 4100 forms a patchpanel 4102 for rack or frame mounting and defines a plurality of ports4104 (see FIG. 31). In one example, connector assembly 4100 includes oneor more modular RJ 45 jack modules 4106, which snap-fit to connectorassembly 4100 to define the ports 4104 (see FIG. 38). The RJ jackmodules 4106 connect to twisted pair cables, or other signaltransmission structures, such as PCBs. Plugs 4002 are inserted into jackmodules 4106 to enable main signal transmission from the cable throughjack module 4106 to another cable or other signal transmission media.

The connector assembly 4100 also includes a media reading interface 4188(FIG. 25) that permits reading (e.g., by a processor) of the informationstored in the storage device 4030 of the connector arrangement 4000. Theinformation read from the storage device 4030 can be transferred to aphysical layer management network (e.g., network 101 of FIG. 1, network218 of FIG. 2, etc.) as will be disclosed herein. In some examplesimplementations, the circuitry associated with storage device 4030 andthe circuitry associated with media reading interface 4188 does notaffect the main signal transmission interface between the plug and thejack.

In the example shown, the patch panel 4102 includes internal circuitry4180 (FIGS. 23-24) enclosed between a frame 4120 (FIGS. 28-30) and afascia 4160 (see FIG. 31). Circuitry 4180 includes a main PCB 4182 (FIG.23). The main PCB 4182. The main PCB 4182 includes a main communicationsinterface connector 4184 and storage interface connectors 4186 (seeFIGS. 23 and 25). In one example, the communications interface connector4184 is mounted to an upper end of the main PCB 4182 and the storageinterface connectors 4186 are mounted to a lower end of the PCB 4182.

Storage interface connectors 4186 form the media reading interface 4188for connector assembly 4100. In the example shown in FIG. 25, thestorage interface connectors 4186 include a set of contacts 4190 thatextend over a bottom edge of the PCB 4182. A modular plug 4002 can bearranged within the connector assembly 4100 so that the circuit contactson the plug PCB 4022 contact the contacts 4190 on the PCB 4182. In theexample shown, the contacts 4190 are split into two spaced groups.

In certain implementations, a microswitch 4224 can be mounted to the PCB4182 adjacent to each storage interface connector 4182 for sensing thepresence of a connector arrangement 4000 inserted into the correspondingjack 4106. In the example shown, the microswitch 4224 extends downwardlyfrom the PCB 4182 between the two groups of contacts 4190 (see FIG. 25).In accordance with one example, when a plug 4002 is arranged within theconnector assembly 4100, the microswitch 4224 is depressed by the base4005 of the plug 4002.

In certain implementations, the PCB 4182 also includes an LED indicator4216 adjacent each storage interface connector 4186 of the PCB 4182 (seeFIG. 25). In the example shown, each LED indicator 4216 is a bi-colorindicator. The indicator 4216 can be used to indicate a particular jackmodule 4106 to a technician. For example, the indicator 4216 can be litto indicate into which jack module 4106 a technician should insert aplug 4002. The indicator 4216 also can indicate which jack module 4106contains a particular plug 4002.

The frame 4120 includes a main portion 4122 and ends 4124, 4126. Eachend 4124, 4126 of the frame 4120 defines holes 4128 to mount frame 4120to a rack. The main portion 4122 of the frame 4120 includes upper andlower flanges 4140. The main portion 4122 defines one or more openings4132 configured to receive the jack modules 4106. Frame 4120 alsodefines a second aperture 4134 (FIG. 28) configured to receive thecommunications interface connector 4184 (e.g., see FIG. 33).

The fascia 4160 is coupled to the frame 4120 to secure the PCB 4182therebetween. The fascia 4160 defines opening 4162 (FIG. 31) that alignwith openings 4110 of the jack modules 4106 when the jack modules 4106are mounted to the frame 4120. The PCB 4182 is arranged above theopenings 4162. Plugs 4002 of the connector arrangement 4000 can beinserted through the openings 4162 and into the jack modules 4106. Thefascia 4160 also defines openings 4164 for the passage of light signalsfrom the LED indicators 4216 of the internal circuitry 4180 (see FIG.31).

In certain implementations, the fascia 4160 can be formed in multiplepieces. In the example shown, the fascia 4160 includes an upper piece4161 and a lower portion 4171. The upper and lower pieces 4161, 4171cooperate to define openings 4162. In the example shown, the upper piece4161 includes legs 4166 extending downwardly from a main portion 4165 todefine slots 4167 (FIG. 26). The lower piece 4171 includes flanges 4172that extend upwardly from a transverse portion 4174 to define slots 4173(FIG. 28). The legs 4166 and flanges 4172 cooperate to merge slots 4167and 4173 into openings 4162 (e.g., see FIG. 31).

The upper piece 4161 of the fascia 4160 also includes flanges 4168,which protrude inwardly from either end of the main portion 4165. Theflanges 4168 are separated sufficiently to accommodate thecommunications interface connector 4184 (see FIG. 27).

In the example shown, the connector assembly 4100 is assembled bymounting the PCB 4182 to the upper piece 4161 of the fascia 4160 to forma first unit. Locator holes 4212 (FIG. 26) defined by the PCB 4182 alignwith posts 4166 (FIG. 27) of upper piece 4161 of the fascia 4160 tofacilitate assembly of the PCB 4182 to fascia 4160 (see FIGS. 26-27).The PCB 4182 also defines cutouts 4185 that accommodate standoffs 4144protruding inwardly from the upper piece 4161 of the fascia 4160.

The lower piece 4171 of the fascia 4160 mounts to the frame 4120 to forma second unit (see FIGS. 28-29). The lower piece 4171 includes ends 4175that define openings 4176 that align with openings 4128 on frame ends4124 and 4126. In some implementations, one or more fasteners can securethe ends 4175 of the lower piece 4171 to the ends 4124, 4126 of theframe 4120. In other implementations, fasteners can be inserted throughthe main body of the frame 4120 and/or fascia 4160.

The first unit is removably coupled to the second unit (see FIGS.30-31). Tabs 4142 on the flanges 4140 cooperate with a complementarymating structure on the flanges 4168 of the fascia 4160 to connect thefascia 4160 to the frame 4120 (see FIG. 31). Standoffs 4144 acceptscrews 4145 or other fasteners for mounting the front panel 4160 to theframe 4120.

Because the first unit includes only the upper fascia 4161, the firstunit can be removed from the second unit without disturbing the jackmodules 4106 and modular plugs 4002 mounted to the second unit.Accordingly, the PCB 4182 can be replaced by replacing the upper piece4161 of the fascia 4160 without unplugging the plug modules 4002 fromthe jack modules 4106.

Once connected, information can be read from media storage device 4030of the connector arrangement 4000 by a CPU card 4300 connected to maincommunications interface connector 4184 (see FIG. 34). The CPU card 4300includes circuitry and components including a processor that isconfigured to read information obtained from the storage device 4030 ofthe connector arrangement 4000. Communications ports 4302, 4304 of theCPU card 4300 can be connected to the physical layer management network.A power port 4306 also can be defined by the CPU card 4300.

A number of implementations of the invention defined by the followingclaims have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood thatvarious modifications to the described implementations may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention.Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the followingclaims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A connection assembly comprising: areceptacle arrangement extending along a depth between a front and arear, the front of the receptacle arrangement defining a plurality ofseparate openings, each opening being sized to receive a respective plugconnector and to align the respective plug connector with a respectivesignal receiving structure disposed within the receptacle arrangement; acircuit board disposed within the receptacle arrangement; and a row ofmicro switches coupled to the circuit board, each of the micro switchesaligning with a respective one of the separate openings of thereceptacle arrangement, each of the micro switches being electricallycoupled to the circuit board, each of the micro switches being inwardlyrecessed from the front of the receptacle arrangement so that each microswitch is actuatable by the respective plug connector when the plugconnector is received within a respective one of the separate openingsthrough the front of the receptacle arrangement, and each of the microswitches being disposed between the signal receiving structure and thefront of the receptacle arrangement.
 2. The connection assembly of claim1, wherein each micro switch extends beyond an edge of the circuitboard.
 3. The connection assembly of claim 1, wherein the circuit boardis disposed above the separate openings.
 4. The connection assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the receptacle arrangement is configured to receive anelectrical plug connector.
 5. The connection assembly of claim 1,wherein the receptacle arrangement includes a plurality of separatereceptacle housings, each separate receptacle housing defining a port inalignment with one of the separate openings.
 6. The connection assemblyof claim 5, wherein each of the separate receptacle housings includes ajack module.
 7. The connection assembly of claim 5, wherein the microswitches are positioned within the receptacle arrangement so that, whenthe plug connector is received at one of the separate openings at thefront of the receptacle arrangement, the micro switch contacts anopposite side of the plug connector from a finger tab of the plugconnector.
 8. The connection assembly of claim 5, wherein the receptaclearrangement includes a frame to which the separate receptacle housingsare coupled, the frame defining a plurality of openings that align withthe separate openings at the front of the receptacle arrangement.
 9. Theconnection assembly of claim 8, wherein the receptacle arrangement alsoincludes a fascia coupled to the frame, the fascia defining theplurality of separate openings at the front of the receptaclearrangement.
 10. The connection assembly of claim 9, wherein the fasciais a two-piece construction.
 11. The connection assembly of claim 1,further comprising a plurality of media reading interfaces coupled tothe circuit board, each media reading interface aligned with one of theseparate openings.
 12. The connection assembly of claim 11, wherein eachmedia reading interface includes a plurality of deflectable contactmembers.
 13. The connection assembly of claim 12, wherein each microswitch is disposed between two of the deflectable contact members of arespective one of the media reading interfaces.
 14. The connectionassembly of claim 1, further comprising light indicators coupled to thecircuit board, the light indicators being visible from the front of thereceptacle arrangement when activated.
 15. The connection assembly ofclaim 14, wherein the receptacle arrangement includes a frame andfascia, the circuit board mounted between the frame and the fascia, thefascia defining openings through which light emitted from the lightindicators is visible.
 16. The connection assembly of claim 14, whereinthe receptacle arrangement holds a plurality of jack modules.
 17. Theconnection assembly of claim 14, wherein the light indicators includeLED indicators.
 18. The connection assembly of claim 17, wherein thelight indicators are bi-colored indicators.
 19. The connection assemblyof claim 1, wherein the circuit board includes a main communicationsinterface connector.
 20. The connection assembly of claim 19, whereinthe main communications interface connector faces in a differentdirection than the micro switches.